Irvine Cruises Past Saddleback

Travis Otott threw for three touchdowns in the first quarter to lead Irvine to a 30-6 victory over Saddleback in nonleague play Friday night at Irvine High.

The Vaqueros’ defense was just as strong, holding Saddleback to 28 yards in the first quarter. Otott completed five of eight passes for 110 yards and three touchdowns in the first quarter, including a dazzling 40-yarder to Eric Patton on a post pattern. Otott had hooked up with Patton earlier in the quarter for a seven-yard touchdown.

The first-year varsity quarterback also connected with Godfrey Young on a 40-yard screen pass play that saw Young go the distance untouched.

“We didn’t really have a game plan,” Otott said. “We just come out and do our stuff.”

Saddleback used a no-huddle, quick offense in an attempt to throw off Irvine, but the Vaqueros had too much speed. Saddleback’s eight possessions in the first half resulted in five punts and three turnovers.

Irvine’s offense settled down in the second quarter. The Vaqueros attempted only one pass the rest of the game. In fact, Otott sat out the second half as Josh Short stepped in to hand off to running backs Dave Worthington and Jason Cannata.

Saddleback got on the scoreboard in the fourth quarter on a fourth-down play. Saddleback quarterback Ramon Saavedra found Moises Roman for a 17-yard touchdown. The scoring play and Saddleback’s effort throughout the game impressed Irvine.

“Saddleback always plays us hard,” said Irvine defensive end Brian Porteous who had one sack, one blocked pass, and caused a fumble. “We have a lot of respect for that team.”

Irvine’s defense allowed only 36 yards rushing and caused four turnovers.